Fate and Consequences by Wells Linda

Author:Wells, Linda [Wells, Linda]
Language: eng
Format: mobi
Published: 2009-03-09T04:00:00+00:00

Chapter 22

Elizabeth awoke feeling cold. For a few moments she thought that she was in her bed at Longbourn until she realized that the fine fabric beneath her cheek would not have been wasted on a pillow, but would have been fashioned into a dress or a shirt for her father, just as her old gowns were remade again and again. She became aware of deep steady breathing nearby, and opened her eyes to see William. The moonlight through the window provided just enough illumination for her to lie still and simply appreciate his handsome relaxed features. She was surprised that he was not holding her in some way, and even, she admitted to herself, disappointed. Trying to roll to her back, she found it was impossible to move. Upon lifting the counterpane to discover the reason, she saw that William had gathered up the fabric of her nightdress and clutched it in his hand, like a child sleeping with a favourite blanket or toy. A bright smile lit Elizabeth’s face and her disappointment vanished. He was holding her. Seeking to reward him, she scooted to his side and instantly felt warm again.

Darcy’s arm wrapped around her waist and he sleepily nuzzled her neck. “Lizzy.” He whispered and his lips wandered up her face to find hers. They held each other and kissed deeply. When Darcy finally opened his eyes, he was astonished to discover this was no dream. Elizabeth held his face and laughed, watching his expression of surprise turn to one of absolute delight.

“You are real!” He smiled widely and hugged her tight.

“Did you forget about me?” She laughed.

“Never. I just am not used to having my dreams come to life . . . oh what a wonderful way to awaken!” He proceeded to leave a trail of kisses from her temple to her neck. His muffled voice tickled her ear. “You are not well enough to return to Longbourn.”

With difficulty, Elizabeth tried to speak coherently. “I . . . believe that . . . you decreed . . . I should.”

“I was overwrought. I have rested and I am thinking clearly now. You will stay until we wed.” The wandering lips were joined by his firmly caressing hands.

“But . . .” His hands began lovingly fondling her breasts. “Ohhhhh . . .”

Darcy’s face lifted. “Please stay.”

“Will . . . I truly wish to stay, but Papa . . .”

Darcy sighed and pulled her close. “He wants you home. I know.” The sound of resignation was clear in his voice. He kissed her forehead and valiantly attempted to control his desire. “Will you leave me a token, Lizzy, so that I can survive the night without you?”

“What would you like? You have my ribbon, my gloves, and my handkerchief, what else of me would satisfy you?” Darcy’s intense gaze answered the question without words. Elizabeth blushed, which did nothing to cool his ardour. His hands began stroking her face and he was staring at her parted lips. She

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